Top Billing for Formby Rolls

An immaculate 1950 Silver Wraith Rolls-Royce could be the star of a forthcoming auction.

Originally owned by Lancastrian comedy actor and singer-songwriter, the ukulele-strumming George Formby, the vehicle will go under the hammer at Historics in Surrey.

A prolific buyer of motorcars, Formby owned no fewer than 26 Rolls-Royces and Bentleys over the years, parting with this Silver Wraith in 1952.

The car, whose history is extensively documented, then enjoyed a rich ownership history as a much-loved family car for some twenty years. The Rolls-Royce factory conducted a complete engine change in the ‘60s, before the Silver Wraith became the prize possession of a young stockbroker, who subsequently funded a complete restoration, inside and out, with bills exceeding £80,000. The car has since been fastidiously-maintained by Rolls-Royce specialists, and its overall condition is exemplary.

Understandably, this regal, 63-year old is expected to attract significant interest at its auction estimate of £40,000-£48,000.

It will be auctioned alongside fine classic motorcars and automobilia at Historics at Brooklands winter auction venue, Mercedes-Benz World, near Weybridge, Surrey on Saturday 30 November, from 10am, with viewing on the previous day. Call 01753 639170 for more details.